Archive of DfE COVID-19 guidance (England)
Department for Education guidance and updates on coronavirus
Back to Coronavirus information (updated) for updates since date below
Department for Education (DfE)
20 January 2021:
Stories saying mass testing of pupils & staff is paused are completely untrue. There is no change to the main rollout of regular testing in schools, which is already finding teachers and pupils with coronavirus who do not have symptoms (1/3) https://t.co/iM7c9RCl55 pic.twitter.com/MX1HpB93mG
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) January 20, 2021
Following new advice from @PHE_UK in response to the new, more transmissible strain, we’re temporarily pausing daily contact testing instead of isolation for those who come into contact with positive cases in schools (2/3) https://t.co/iM7c9RCl55
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) January 20, 2021
Public Health England and NHS Test and Trace have published a position statement on daily contact testing as a replacement for self-isolation in secondary schools and colleges. Further information here.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings Updated:
List of data collections, services or requests which will be cancelled, paused or will continue.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) asymptomatic testing for staff in primary schools and nurseries Updated:
Information on rapid asymptomatic coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for staff in primary schools, school-based nurseries and maintained nursery schools.
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated:
What all special schools and other specialist settings will need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings For the period of national lockdown, please also refer to the: guidance…
Mass asymptomatic testing in specialist settings This guidance is for leaders and others involved in the mass testing…
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care Updated:
Early years foundation stage: coronavirus disapplications Updated:
Summary of changes Updated guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated:
What all schools will need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak from the start of the autumn term.
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated:
What all special schools and other specialist settings will need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated:
Guidance for schools and local authorities on school meals arrangements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated:
This guidance has been updated to include information on: how to order…
Coronavirus (COVID-19): temporary extension of free school meals eligibility to NRPF groups Updated:
Letter from Gavin Williamson to Simon Lebus Updated:
The Secretary of State for Education writes to Ofqual's Chief Regulator outlining the process to agree alternative arrangements for exams in 2021.
Responsibility for exams Updated:
Guidance for schools and colleges on who should enter students for exams, the health arrangements for exams and the support DfE is providing.
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers progress data Updated:
Information about how many laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers we have delivered or dispatched to local authorities and academy trusts.
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated:
Guidance for local authorities, academy trusts and schools on devices and support available to provide remote education and access to children’s social care.
Hundreds of thousands more laptops to support disadvantaged pupils learn at home
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated:
Providing remote education information to parents: template Updated:
How to complete the educational setting status form Updated:
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges Updated:
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated:
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated:
Face coverings in education Guidance on the use of face coverings for schools and other education institutions that teach people in years 7 and above in England. Updated:
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated:
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Mass asymptomatic testing: schools and colleges: Find out how to administer testing which will begin in January 2021.
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care
Coronavirus (COVID-19) contingency framework for education and childcare settings 7 January 2021
How settings can prepare for restrictions to help contain community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Contingency framework: education and childcare settings (excluding universities) 7 January 2021
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19) 7 January 2021
Information on the return of students from January 2021 and NHS Test and Trace channels.
Student movement and plans for the end of term 7 January 2021
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses 7 January 2021
School attendance: guidance for schools 7 January 2021
Covers registers and attendance codes (including circumstances due to coronavirus (COVID-19)), school hours and term dates, and improving school attendance.
Improving school attendance: support for schools and local authorities 7 January 2021
Disapplication notice: school attendance legislation changes 7 January 2021
Education Secretary's statement to Parliament on education settings and national lockdown, including exams, 6 January 2021:
- Education Secretary outlines plans to support young people
- School closures, remote learning, critical workers, nurseries and more: your lockdown education questions answered
Definitions of vulnerable children and young people, and critical workers (January 2021)
Contingency framework implemented across London boroughs Press release DfE and DHSC 1 January 2021
Coronavirus (COVID-19) contingency framework for education and childcare settings Guidance 1 January 2021
Letter from Michelle Donelan to higher education students 31 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services 31 December 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings 31 December 2020
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 31 December 2020
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 31 December 2020 Guidance
Mass asymptomatic testing: schools and colleges 31 December 2020 Detailed guide
Critical workers and vulnerable children who can access schools or educational settings 31 December 2020
Letter from Michelle Donelan to higher education providers 30 December 2020
Schools and childcare settings: return in January 2021 Guidance 30 December 2020
Further education (FE) providers: return in January 2021 Guidance 30 December 2020
School contingency plans to be implemented as cases rise Press release 30 December 2020
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision 30 December 2020
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision 30 December 2020
Education Secretary sets out school contingency plans for England Statement to parliament 30 December 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance 30 December 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance 30 December 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance 30 December 2020
Military to support the testing of thousands of secondary school and college students in England News story MOD and DfE Guidance 29 December 2020
Studying in the UK: guidance for EU students 28 December 2020 Detailed guide
New Turing scheme to support thousands of students to study and work abroad 26 December 2020 Press release
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19) 23 December 2020 Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): assessment processes for selective school admissions 23 December 2020 Guidance DfE
Mass asymptomatic testing: schools and colleges Detailed guide, DfE and DHSC, 23 December 2020
Find out how to administer testing which will begin in January 2021.
The PHE advice line, accessed by calling the DfE Coronavirus helpline on 0800 046 8687, will be closed from 25-28 December and on 1 January. If you have an urgent public health issue that you need advice on, please use locally-agreed support arrangements or contact your local PHE Health Protection Team. Further information to provide additional support while the PHE advice line is closed will be issued shortly.
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, DfE and ESFA, 23 December 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance 23 December 2020
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance 22 December 2020
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance 22 December 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance 22 December 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance 22 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Updated Guidance 21 December 2020
Guidance for higher education providers during the transition period and after 1 January 2021 Updated Guidance 21 December 2020
Guidance for providers of further education and apprenticeships during the transition period and after 1 January 2021Updated Guidance 22 December 2020
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers progress data Transparency data 22 December 2020
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide 21 December 2020
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide 21 December 2020
One million laptops and tablets for disadvantaged children and young people 20 December 2020 Press release 20 December 2020
Further and higher education: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection 18 December 2020
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection 18 December 2020
Asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges Detailed guide DfE and DHSC 18 December 2020
Responsibility for exams Guidance 18 December 2020
Remote education webinars Updated Detailed guide, 18 December 2020
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection, DfE, 17 December 2020
Further education (FE) providers: return in January 2021 Guidance, 17 December 2020
Schools and childcare settings: return in January 2021 Guidance, 17 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care Updated Guidance, 17 December 2020
Use of free early education entitlements funding during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 17 December 2020
Staggered rollout of coronavirus testing for secondary schools and colleges Press Release, 17 December 2020
Holiday activities and food programme Guidance, 16 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) workforce fund for colleges Guidance, 15 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) workforce fund for schools Guidance, 15 December 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance,15 December 2020
Providing remote education information to parents: template Guidance,15 December 2020
Secondary schools and colleges to get weekly coronavirus testing Press release, DfE and DHSC, 15 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges Guidance, DfE, 15 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): assessment processes for selective school admissions Guidance, DfE, 15 December 2020
COVID-19 National Testing Programme: Schools & Colleges Handbook (NHS) (pdf)
Mass Testing in Education: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges (Gov.UK) (pdf)
Royal London Borough of Greenwich temporary continuity direction 14 December 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance, 14 December 2020
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care Updated Guidance, 14 December 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) test kits for children's homes Detailed guide, 14 December 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): test kits for schools and FE providers Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
School attendance: guidance for schools Updated Guidance,14 December 2020
Testing in North East London, Kent and Essex: your questions answered 11 December 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated Guidance, 10 December 2020
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Detailed guide 8 December 2020
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 7 December 2020
School funding: exceptional costs associated with coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Guidance, 7 December 2020
Get help with remote education Updated Detailed guide, 3 December 2020 (See also Voice's blog on remote education.)
Critical workers and vulnerable children who can access schools or educational settings Updated Guidance, DfE and Cabinet Office, 3 December 2020
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection, 3 December 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance, 3 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): school and college performance measures Updated Guidance, 3 December 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 3 December 2020
Guidance to support the summer 2021 exams Guidance, 3 December 2020
Letter from Gavin Williamson to Glenys Stacey 3 December 2020
Extra measures to support students ahead of next summer’s exams Press release, 3 December 2020
All students offered testing on return to university Press release, DfE and DHSC, 2 December 2020
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Guidance, 2 December 2020
School governance update Correspondence, DfE, 2 December 2020
Remote education webinars, Updated Detailed guide, 2 December 2020 (See also Voice's blog on remote education.)
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Guidance, 2 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings Updated Guidance, 1 December 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT) Updated Guidance, 30 November 2020
Face coverings in education Updated Guidance, 27 November 2020
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 27 November 2020
Transport to school and other places of education: 2020 to 2021 academic year Updated Guidance, 27 November 2020
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 27 November 2020
New funding to support schools and colleges during Covid pandemic Press release 27 November 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) contingency framework for education and childcare settings Guidance, 27 November 2020
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 27 November 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 26 November 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated Guidance, 26 November 2020
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, DfE and ESFA, 26 November 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance, 26 November 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance, 26 November 2020
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Updated Guidance, 24 November 2020
Get help with remote education Updated Detailed guide, 24 November 2020
Help with accessing and buying resources for remote education Detailed guide, 23 November 2020
Updated guidance, 20 November 2020:
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Guidance
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide (See also Voice's blog on remote education.)
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers provided during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Catch-up premium: coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance, 19 November 2020
Package of support for students who have to defer their studies Policy paper: updated 19 November 2020
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 16 November 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Updated Guidance, 16 November 2020
Education and childcare settings: national restrictions from 5 November 2020 Detailed guide, Updated Guidance,16 November 2020
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care Updated Guidance, 13 November 2020
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, DfE and ESFA, 13 November 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance,12 November 2020
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance,12 November 2020
We’ve published guidance for students and universities on allowing students to be with their families at Christmas. https://t.co/GBFREcNPd6 pic.twitter.com/b80p19Saa7
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) November 11, 2020
Christmas guidance set out for university students Press release, 11 November 2020:
- Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Updated Guidance, 11 November 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on isolation for residential educational settings Updated Guidance, 9 November 2020
Use of the NHS COVID-19 app in education and childcare settings Updated Guidance, DfE and DHSC, 6 November 2020
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, DfE and ESFA, 6 November 2020
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 6 November 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for boarding schools with international students Updated Guidance, DfE, 6 November 2020
Critical workers who can access schools or educational settings Updated Guidance, DfE and Cabinet Office, 6 November 2020
Transport to school and other places of education: autumn term 2020 Updated Guidance 5 November 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated Guidance 5 November 2020
Face coverings in education Updated Guidance 5 November 2020
New national restrictions will apply from Thursday 5 November. We’ve published additional guidance for schools which are remaining open: https://t.co/FprLvAQHot pic.twitter.com/AAFkTSNayy
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) November 4, 2020
Education and childcare settings: New National Restrictions from 5 November 2020 Detailed guide, 4 November 2020
How New National Restrictions to control the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) impact education, childcare and children’s social care settings.
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses (including new national restrictions guidance) Updated guidance, 4 November 2020
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 5 November 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated guidance, 5 November 2020
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated guidance, 5 November 2020
New guidance for schools, colleges and early years Press release, 4 November 2020
Letters from Michelle Donelan MP, Minister of State for Universities:
I’ve written to students to explain why it’s so important that universities remain open. I do understand that these restrictions maybe be unsettling, but rest assured there are measures in place to support you. Please protect your loved ones & stay at your current accommodation. pic.twitter.com/vFlCIP6qVC
— Michelle Donelan MP #handsfacespace (@michelledonelan) November 2, 2020
I have written to vice-chancellors outlining what the new national restrictions will mean for universities. Their priority must be ensuring minimal disruption to students’ education and protecting their wellbeing.
. pic.twitter.com/8xf9YUq0Bd— Michelle Donelan MP #handsfacespace (@michelledonelan) November 2, 2020
UK Government: New national restrictions in England from Thursday 5 November 2020:
- Going to school, college and university in section 7
- Childcare and children’s activities in section 8
- Travel in section 11.
Updates 29 October - 2 November 2020:
Package of support for students who have to defer their studies Policy paper
Strengthening families protecting children programme Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19) catch-up premium Detailed guide
PE and sport premium for primary schools Detailed guide DfE and ESFA
Get help with remote education Detailed guide
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision DfE
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance, 22 October 2020
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care Updated Guidance, 22 October 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance, 21 October 2020
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection, 20 October 2020
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 15 October 2020 Official statistics, 20 October 2020
Updated guidance 15/16 October 2020:
Face coverings in education Guidance
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Guidance
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance DfE and ESFA
Guidance for schools during the transition period and after 1 January 2021 Collection
Guidance for higher education providers during the transition period and after 1 January 2021 Collection
Updated guidance 13/14 October:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): test kits for schools and FE providers Guidance for schools and further education (FE) providers on the initial supply of coronavirus (COVID-19) home testing kits for pupils, teachers and staff. Updated to communicate that schools and further education (FE) providers in particularly high risk areas may be eligible for an additional delivery of test kits. These will be allocated to schools and FE providers by the Department for Health and Social Care based on the local prevalence of coronavirus (COVID-19) in local areas
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care Preventing and controlling infection, including the use of PPE, in education, childcare and children’s social care settings during the coronavirus outbreak.
Remote education webinars How to access school-led webinars on remote education to help share good practice.
We are introducing a three tiered system of local COVID Alert Levels in England.
[Tap to expand the graphics]
For more information and to find out which alert level applies in your area go to: https://t.co/G7nva4OUE1 pic.twitter.com/JP6gv7YHiz— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) October 12, 2020
Annex 3: tiers of national restriction for education and childcare
Exams 2021: DfE: press release and written statement from the Secretary of State and Statement from Ofqual plus Voice comment. 12 October 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19: test kits for schools and FE providers Updated Guidance 7 October 2020
Updates 5/6 October 2020:
Safeguarding and remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Detailed guide
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel advice for educational settings Updated Guidance
Updates 1 October 2020:
New remote education support for schools, colleges and teachers Press release DfE
Get help with remote education Detailed guide DfE
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Remote education good practice Guidance DfE
Remote Education Temporary Continuity Direction: explanatory note Guidance DfE
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide DfE
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers provided during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide DfE
Remote education webinars Detailed guide DfE
Updated guidance 30 September 2020:
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Guidance
Responsibility for autumn exams Guidance
Transport to school and other places of education: autumn term 2020 Guidance
Updates: 29 September 2020:
Return of students to universities statement Statement to parliament
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 24 September 2020 Official statistics
Latest updated guidance: 25-28 September 2020:
How schools are managing bubbles effectively (blog)
Critical workers who can access schools or educational settings Guidance DfE and Cabinet Office
Coronavirus (COVID-19): school and college performance measures Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Guidance DfE
Remote education webinars Detailed guide DfE
Teaching during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide DfE
Latest updated guidance, 23 September 2020:
A COVID-19 update for parents of school and college pupils
A copy of the Public Health England / NHS Test & Trace letter sent to parents via schools and colleges (pdf)
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance, DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19) catch-up premium Detailed guide, DfE
COVID-19 What has changed – 22 September 2020 (Cabinet Office)
New Immigration System: new guidance and other developments (16 September 2020):
- Recruiting teachers from overseas: guidance for schools
- Teaching in England: guidance for overseas teachers
- Recruiting trainee teachers from overseas: guidance for accredited ITT providers
- Training to teach in England: guidance for overseas graduates
Latest updated guidance and stats, 22 September 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): test kits for schools and FE providers Guidance
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Further and higher education: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Use of the NHS COVID-19 app in schools and further education colleges Guidance
22 September 2020
Guidance
DfE and DHSC
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT) Guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 17 September 2020 Official statistics, DfE
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection, DfE
Important information for nurseries, schools and colleges: there’s a new process for reporting positive confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in your setting, with a dedicated advice line. pic.twitter.com/BGWZBj9YQd
— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) September 18, 2020
Coronavirus transmission in schools: your questions answered
Responsibility for autumn exams 18 September 2020
Guidance for schools and colleges on who should enter students for autumn exams, the health arrangements for exams and the support DfE is providing.
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance
Updated guidance 17 September 2020:
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Guidance
Updates: 16 September 2020:
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 10 September 2020 Official statistics
Update: 14 September 2020: Coronavirus (COVID-19): kits for schools and FE providers Updated Guidance
Update 11 September 2020: Package of support for students who have to defer their studies Policy paper
Updated guidance, 10 September 2020:
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Updated guidance for universities ahead of reopening Press release:
- Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Updated guidance
Educational psychologists: support for coronavirus (COVID-19) recovery Guidance 9 September 2020
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Updated guidance 8 September 2020
Updated guidance 7 September 2020:
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Responsibility for autumn exams Guidance
Update: 4 September 2020:
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
How schools can access digital devices for children requiring access to remote education due to shielding or local coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions.
Update: 3 September 2020: DHSC/Public Health England Letter to Schools and Colleges: advice on testing and shielding (pdf)
Updates: 2 September 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for boarding schools with international students Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT) Guidance DfE
Updated 1 September 2020:
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance DfE and ESFA
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 27 August 2020 Official statistics
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection DfE
Updated 28/29 August 2020:
DHSC: COVID-19 contain framework: a guide for local decision-makers: Annex 3: tiers of national restriction for education and childcare Guidance
Education Action Cards outlining what settings should do to manage a possible outbreak.
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak 29 August 2020 Guidance
All possible measures to be taken before schools and colleges close
New contingency planning guidance published for education settings in local lockdown areas in England: Press release, DfE and DHSC
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
How schools can plan for tier 2 local restrictions Guidance DfE
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision DfE
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision DfE
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 28 August 2020 Guidance DfE
Changes to the adoption and children regulations: coronavirus (COVID-19) Consultation outcome DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Guidance DfE
School exclusion Statutory guidance DfE
Independent special schools and colleges Guidance DfE and ESFA
The risk protection arrangement (RPA) for schools Detailed guide DfE
Updates: August 2020:
Face coverings in education 26 August 2020 Guidance
Update on face coverings in schools in England News, 25 August 2020
Recording attendance during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 27 August 2020 Guidance
Responsibility for autumn exams 27 August 2020 Guidance
Taking exams during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 27 August 2020 Guidance
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) 26 August 2020 Collection
Further and higher education: coronavirus (COVID-19) 26 August 2020 Collection
Coronavirus (COVID-19): home test kits for schools and FE providers 26 August 2020 Guidance
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus (COVID-19) 26 August 2020 Guidance
£8m programme to boost pupil and teacher wellbeing 25 August 2020 Press release
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance 20 August 2020
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance 20 August 2020
GCSE and A level students to receive centre assessment grades 18 August 2020 News story DfE
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 13 August 2020 18 August 2020 Official statistics
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 18 August 2020 Collection
Government campaign launches to get children ‘back to school safely’ 16 August 2020 News story DfE
Exam appeals: The Rt Hon Nick Gibb MP writes to all headteachers and college principals 15 August 2020 Correspondence DfE
Reassurance for schools and students on result appeals 15 August 2020 Press release DfE
Induction for newly qualified teachers during the coronavirus outbreak13 August 2020 Guidance DfE
Rise in top grades as students celebrate A level results 13 August 2020 Press release DfE
Responsibility for autumn exams 12 August 2020 Guidance
Triple lock for students ahead of A level and GCSE results12 August 2020 Press release DfE
Wellbeing for education return grant: S31 grant determination letter 12 August 2020 Correspondence DfE
Transport to school and other places of education: autumn term 2020 11 August 2020 Guidance DfE
Government urges universities to hold places 11 August 2020 News story
Multi-million-pound funding package for school transport 8 August 2020 Press release DfE and DfT
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19) 7 August 2020 Detailed guide
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services 7 August 2020 Guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak 7 August 2020 Guidance
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19) 7 August 2020 Detailed guide
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers provided during coronavirus (COVID-19) 7 August 2020 Detailed guide
School attendance: guidance for schools 6 August 2020 Guidance
Support for working families affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) given an extra boost 5 August 2020 Press release DfE and HMRC
The risk protection arrangement (RPA) for schools 4 August 2020 Detailed guide
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 30 July 2020 4 August 2020 Official statistics DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19) catch-up premium 4 August 2020 Detailed guide DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings 3 August 2020 Guidance DfE
Updates: 30/31 July
Local lockdowns: guidance for education and childcare settings 31 July 2020 Guidance DfE
Buying for schools during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 31 July 2020 Manual section DfE
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance
Student number controls Guidance FHE
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance DfE and ESFA
The Department's position on face coverings in schools (blog) 27 July 2020
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance 27 July 2020
Updates: 24 July 2020:
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Coronavirus (COVID-19): changes to faith school admission arrangements Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): assessment processes for selective school admissions Guidance
Supporting children and young people with SEND as schools and colleges prepare for wider opening Guidance
Local lockdowns: guidance for education and childcare settings Updated Guidance (Leicester)
Updates 21 July 2020:
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care Updated Guidance
Get technology support for children and schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated Detailed guide
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 17 July 2020 Official statistics
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection DfE
Updates: 20 July 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) catch-up premium Detailed guide
Use of free early education entitlements funding during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on isolation for residential educational settings Updated Guidance, DfE and PHE
Updates: 17 July 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings Updated Guidance
School governance update Correspondence
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Updated Guidance
Opportunity Areas programme to support young people hit hardest by pandemic Press release DfE
Updates 16 July 2020:
Help children with SEND continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help secondary school children continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Supporting your children's education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help children aged 2 to 4 to learn at home during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help primary school children continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
10 top tips to encourage children to read Guidance
Government scheme to help universities in financial difficulties Press release
Higher education restructuring regime Policy paper
Updates 15 July 2020:
Providing free school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance
Updates 14 July 2020
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance DfE and ESFA
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT) Updated Guidance
Updates 13 July 2020:
Taking exams during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance DfE
COVID Summer Food Fund Updated Detailed guide
Updates 10 July 2020:
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Updated Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings Updated guidance
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Collection 7 July 2020
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 2 July 2020 Official statistics 7 July 2020
Managing school premises during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance 7 July 2020
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus (COVID-19) Updated guidance. 6 July 2020
Updates: 2 July 2020:
Local authority children’s services: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Further and higher education: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Guidance
Schools and colleges to reopen in full in September Press release DfE
Education Secretary's statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 02 July 2020 Speech, DfE
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings Guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Main changes to previous guidance:
We have updated this guidance as follows:
- set out a change to the protective measures in early years settings that will be effective from 20 July, removing the requirement to keep children in small consistent groups within settings but still minimising mixing where possible (sections 2.1 and 3.3)
- new content on risk assessment (3.1), supporting staff with increased risk factors (3.2) and system of controls (3.3)
- updated content on attendance at settings for those shielding, with changes to the advice effective from 1 August, and removal of content on vulnerable children since settings are open for all children (section 4)
- updated content on wraparound care (5.3)
- an update on Early Years Foundation Stage reforms (7.6) and Reception Baseline Assessment (7.7)
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
What all schools will need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak from the start of the autumn term.
Arrangements for examinations and assessments in 2020/21 Correspondence DfE and Ofqual
Updates: 1 July 2020:
Local lockdowns: guidance for education and childcare settings Guidance
Reforms set to boost early language outcomes and cut workload Press release DfE
Early adopter schools: EYFS profile handbook Guidance
Early adopter schools: EYFS framework Guidance
Early years foundation stage reforms Consultation outcome
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Guidance
Providing free school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 30 June 2020 Guidance
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19) 30 June 2020 Collection
COVID Summer Food Fund 30 June 2020 Detailed guide
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance Updated 30 June 2020
Updates: 29 June 2020:
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance DfE
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision DfE
Modification notice: education, health and care plans legislation changes Decision DfE
Disapplication notice: school attendance legislation changes Decision DfE
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision DfE
Get technology support for children and schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide DfE
PM announces transformative school rebuilding programme Press release DfE and Number 10
College collaboration fund (CCF) Detailed guide DfE
Student number controls 26 June 2020 Guidance DfE
Vulnerable children to get better support when moving school 26 June 2020 Press release DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings 26 June 2020 Guidance DfE
Reception Baseline Assessment FAQs
Today [25 June 2020] we have announced that the statutory introduction of the Reception Baseline Assessment will be delayed for a year because of the issues brought about by the Covid 19 pandemic. But what is the RBA? Here are some helpful questions …
Providing free school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance DfE 25 June 2020
COVID Summer Food Fund Detailed guide DfE 25 June 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): keeping children safe online Updated Guidance DCMS, DfE and Home Office 25 June 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance 25 June 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Keeping children safe from abuse and harm Guidance 25 June 2020
Updates, 23 June 2020:
Actions for early years and childcare providers Updated Guidance (early years providers opening and additional information on protective measures)
Student number controls- measures to protect students and universities during the coronavirus outbreak Further Guidance
Alternative provision-year 11 transition funding Update Guidance (claim form, eligibility and access to funding)
Online education resources for home learning Guidance DfE 24 June 2020
School funding: exceptional costs associated with coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance 24 June 2020
Updates: 18/19 June 2020:
Billion pound Covid catch-up plan to tackle impact of lost teaching time Press release DfE and Number 10
- Education Endowment Foundation: National tutoring programme launched:
- Tutoring programme
- Covid-19 support guide
Extended powers SEND tribunal: national trial 18 June 2020 Guidance DfE and HMCTS
Supporting children and young people with SEND as schools and colleges prepare for wider opening Guidance DfE
Updated guidance 16/17 June 2020:
FE funding: initial teacher education (ITE), academic year 2020 to 2021
Keeping children safe in education
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care
Critical workers who can access schools or educational settings
Primary schools to be given flexibility to bring back more pupils Press release 15 June 2020
Making the most of reduced classroom time Detailed guide 12 June 2020
Deciding what to teach in the classroom and what to teach at home.
Case studies: remote education practice for schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) 12 June 2020
Oral statement by Education Secretary, 9 June 2020
Update: 7 June 2020:
Extra mental health support for pupils and teachers Press release DfE and DHSC
Update 5 June 2020:
Information for providers to help reduce the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on their ITT provision: Updated Guidance
- Update to criteria and supporting advice Updated Guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance
Updates 4 June 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT) Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection Cabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Preparing for the wider opening of schools from 1 June Guidance
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses Guidance
Updates 2 June 2020:
What parents and carers need to know about schools and other education settings during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance DfE and ESFA
Updates 29 May - 2 June 2020:
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance
Student number controls Guidance
What parents and carers need to know about schools and other education settings during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance
Early years foundation stage statutory framework (EYFS) Statutory guidance
Critical workers who can access schools or educational settings Guidance Cabinet Office and DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing protective measures in education and childcare settings Guidance
Actions for educational and childcare settings to prepare for wider opening from 1 June 2020 Guidance
School attendance: guidance for schools Guidance
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus Guidance
Modification notice: education health and care plans legislation changes Decision DfE
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision DfE
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision DfE
Disapplication notice: school attendance legislation changes Decision DfE
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Yesterday we asked @NickGibbUK how @educationgovuk will ensure the safety of extremely clinical vulnerable, and clinically vulnerable school staff.
📩Here is the Minister's response: https://t.co/A9Ik9jsX3i
📕Read more about our #COVID19 inquiry: https://t.co/zp8VopH5UW pic.twitter.com/n0lpbrmutK— Education Committee (@CommonsEd) May 28, 2020
Updates: 28 May 2020:
Providing free school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Recording attendance during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Guidance
Help children aged 2 to 4 to learn at home during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Updates 26/27 May 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on isolation for residential educational settings Guidance DfE and PHE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care Guidance DfE
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus outbreak Transparency data DfE
Supporting children and young people with SEND as schools and colleges prepare for wider opening Guidance
Preparing for the wider opening of schools from 1 June (primary and secondary) Guidance
Updates: 25 May 2020:
Guidance for secondary school provision from 15 June 2020
Updates: 24 May 2020 (with comment from General Secretary):
Planning guide for early years and childcare settings
The government announced a roadmap towards recovery from the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and plans for welcoming all children back to early years settings and a phased return of some children to school from 1 June at the earliest. This planning guide is intended to provide information and support for all early years providers in England as they prepare to open for all children.
.@Voicetheunion as much as this guidance is welcome & long awaited, publication over a bank holiday weekend is inconsiderate & does not allow sufficient time for planning purposes https://t.co/ndyBvMLIlw
— Deborah Lawson (@VoiceGenSec) May 24, 2020
PM confirms schools, colleges and nurseries on track to begin phased reopening
From 1 June schools, colleges and nurseries are set to open to more children....[Prime Minister] "also acknowledged that some schools may not be able to reopen immediately, and committed the government to continuing to work with the sector ....It also remains the case that schools will only reopen to more children if the government’s five tests are met by Thursday 28 May....In the coming days, the Prime Minister will set out the government’s progress in meeting these five tests, which are..
The Prime Minister confirmed that from 1 June, schools and nurseries are set to open to more children, providing the government’s five tests are met by 28 May.
👉 https://t.co/mG6Z9XR07A pic.twitter.com/z79sq9OhHF— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) May 24, 2020
"It also remains the case that schools will only reopen to more children if the government’s five tests are met by Thursday 28 May.
"In the coming days, the Prime Minister will set out the government’s progress in meeting these five tests, which are:... https://t.co/F2EQ2qAU38 https://t.co/MUc32tihdx— Voice Community (@Voicetheunion) May 25, 2020
Yup. Final decision will only be taken as part of the formal review on Thursday. So we are getting this announcement now, before all the evidence is available, solely to divert attention from his political difficulty. Shocking.
— Rachel Gooch (@SchoolDuggery) May 24, 2020
Updates 22 May 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): cancellation of GCSEs, AS and A levels in 2020 Updated guidance
Responsibility for autumn GCSE, AS and A level exam series Updated guidance
Reporting to parents at the end of key stages 1 and 2 Detailed guide, STA
School reports on pupil performance: guide for headteachers Detailed guide, DfE, STA
Case studies: remote education practice for schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Adapting teaching practice for remote education Detailed guide
Adapting teaching practice for remote education at a special needs secondary school Case study DfE
Providing physical work packs for pupils with limited or no internet connection Case study
A mixed approach to remote education at a primary school Case study
Safeguarding and remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Supporting wellbeing Detailed guide
Actions for HE providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Supporting your children's education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help primary school children continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help secondary school children continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
New measures announced ahead of Hidden Harms Summit Press release DfE, Home Office, MOJ and Number 10
What parents and carers need to know about schools and other education settings during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Early years ITT requirements and supporting advice Guidance
Overview of scientific information on coronavirus (COVID-19) Correspondence DfE 15 May 2020
Updates 12/13 May 2020:
Schools reopening Q&A (12 May 2020)
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection Cabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID 19): online education resources Guidance
Details on phased wider opening of schools, colleges and nurseries Press release DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection Cabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing protective measures in education and childcare settings Guidance DfE
Actions for educational and childcare settings to prepare for wider opening from 1 June 2020 Guidance DfE
What parents and carers need to know about schools and other education settings during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Updates: 6 May 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children's social care services Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID 19): online education resources Guidance DfE
Updates: 7 May 2020
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Conducting a SEND risk assessment during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Updates: 5 May 2020:
Remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Keeping pupils motivated and engaged Detailed guide
Adapting the curriculum for remote education Detailed guide
Adapting teaching practice for remote education Detailed guide
Supporting pupils’ wellbeing Detailed guide
Remote education practice for schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Case studies: remote education practice for schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Collection
Supporting primary and secondary pupils’ wellbeing at an academy Case study
Supporting the wellbeing of primary pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) Case study
Supporting primary and secondary pupils’ wellbeing at a multi-academy trust (MAT) Case study
Adaptive teaching design Case study
Using a virtual learning environment Case study
Using digital teaching tools Case study
Using video lessons Case study
Adapting the primary school curriculum Case study
Adapting the secondary science curriculum Case study
Adapting the secondary geography curriculum Case study
Adapting the secondary curriculum across multiple subjects Case study
Keeping primary and secondary pupils motivated and engaged at a distance Case study
Supporting engagement in learning for primary pupils when direct communication is limited Case study
Critical workers who can access schools or educational settings Guidance Cabinet Office and DfE
Eligibility for government childcare offers protected Press release DfE and HMRC
Coronavirus (COVID-19): attendance in education and early years settings Transparency data DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel advice for educational settings Updated Guidance DfE and PHE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection Cabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Actions for HE providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Updates 1-4 May 2020:
Get technology support for children and schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide DfE
Government support package for universities and students Press release DfE and BEIS
Emergency funding to support most vulnerable in society during pandemic Press release MHCLG, DCMS, DfE, Home Office and MOJ
What parents and carers need to know about schools and other education settings during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): cancellation of GCSEs, AS and A levels in 2020 Guidance DfE
Induction for newly qualified teachers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance 1 May 2020
Updates: 30 April 2020:
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus Guidance
SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years Statutory guidance DfE and DHSC
School attendance: guidance for schools Guidance
School behaviour and attendance: parental responsibility measures Statutory guidance
Modification notice: EHC plans legislation changes Decision
Disapplication notice: school inspections legislation changes Decision
Modification notice: school registration legislation changes Decision
Disapplication notice: school attendance legislation changes Decision
Updates: 28 April 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection, Cabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Use of free early education entitlements funding during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance DfE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): attendance in education and early years settings Transparency data
New free online learning platform to boost workplace skills News story
Updates: 23/24/27 April 2020:
Early years foundation stage: coronavirus disapplications
To support early years providers who remain open to vulnerable children and children of critical workers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Government has temporarily disapplied and modified certain elements of the EYFS statutory framework. This will allow providers greater flexibility to respond to changes in workforce availability and potential fluctuations in demand, while still providing care that is high quality and safe. The temporary changes include:
- providers are not required to meet existing learning and development requirements, but instead should use reasonable endeavours to meet them during the COVID-19 period
- providers are not required to undertake the EYFS profile assessment in 2019/20 academic year, and accordingly local authorities are not required to collect or moderate data on this
- providers are not required to undertake the 2 year progress check during the coronavirus (COVID-19) period
- exceptions are allowed to the qualifications that staff hold in order to be counted in ratio requirements
- requirements around paediatric first aid (where children aged 2-5 years old are on-site). For those caring for children aged 2-5, providers must use their ‘best endeavours’ to ensure one person with a full PFA certificate is on-site at all times when children are present. If after using best endeavours they are still unable to secure a member of staff with PFA to be on site then they must carry out a written risk assessment and ensure that someone with a current First Aid at Work or emergency PFA certification is on site at all times children are on premises.
- There is no longer the requirement for new entrants to hold PFA certification to count in ratios during this period.
Early years foundation stage statutory framework (EYFS) Statutory guidance
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings CollectionCabinet Office, DfE and PHE
Admission appeals for school places Guidance School admissions appeals code Statutory guidance
Using clusters and hubs to maintain educational provision Guidance
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Providing free school meals during the coronavirus outbreak Updated Guidance
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Schools to benefit from education partnership with tech giants Press release
- EdTech: Demonstrator schools and colleges programme Detailed guide
- EdTech demonstrator schools and colleges: expression of interest Form
- EdTech demonstrator schools and colleges: successful applicants Transparency data
Get technology support for children and schools during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Multi-million support for vulnerable children during COVID-19 Press release
Managing school premises during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Councils given flexibility with free childcare funding Press Release 23 April 2020
Today I sent a letter to all education providers sharing my gratitude for their efforts to continue to care for our most vulnerable children and young people at this challenging time. pic.twitter.com/xlRfppyEfU
— Gavin Williamson (@GavinWilliamson) April 23, 2020
Government to extend testing for coronavirus to more frontline workers (Department of Health & Social Care) (23 April 2020)
Access to testing for those with symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be extended across England to include additional frontline workers and symptomatic members of their household.
Updated Guidance, 22 April 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care
Updated Guidance, 21 April 2020:
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak
Attendance in education settings
Guidance on data collection and reducing burdens on educational and care settings
Guidance about COVID-19 for schools and other educational settings
Q&A on vulnerable children and young people:
Updates: 20 April 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): free school meals guidance Updated guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings Guidance
Get help with technology for remote education during coronavirus (COVID-1 Detailed guide
Actions for schools during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
What parents and carers need to know about schools and education during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Gavin Williamson speech on COVID-19 response Speech
Coronavirus (COVID-19): SEND risk assessment guidance Guidance
Supporting vulnerable children and young people during the coronavirus outbreak Guidance
Get help with technology for remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Supporting your children's education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help children aged 2 to 4 to learn at home during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help children with SEND continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Safeguarding and remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
New major package to support online learning News story DfE
Remote education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Help primary school children continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19) Detailed guide
Updates: 16/17 April 2020 :
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for education, early years and children’s social care Guidance
Closure of educational settings: information for parents and carers Guidance Updated 16 April 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): early years and childcare closures Guidance Updated 15 April 2020
Updates: 14 April 2020:
Post-graduate teaching apprenticeships
Updates: 8 April 2020:
Coronavirus and school closures
Today's blog looks at media reports based on speculation that schools could reopen after the Easter holidays. The Department for Education has issued a statement in response to reports that schools may reopen after the Easter holidays….position on closures is clear: schools will remain closed until the scientific advice indicates it is safe to open them…except for children of critical workers and the children who are most vulnerable.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on isolation for residential educational settings
Guidance to support management of children and young people in residential educational settings, including boarding schools, residential special schools and specialist colleges and children’s homes.
Updates: 7 April 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT)
Information for providers about managing initial teacher training courses impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection
Extra support for schools and parents to help cope with coronavirus Press release
Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing social distancing in education and childcare settings Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): free school meals guidance Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): financial support for schools Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID 19): online education resources Guidance
Update 6 April 2020:
Updates: 3 April 2020
Direction issued to the Chief Regulator of Ofqual Correspondence
Coronavirus (COVID-19): attendance recording for educational settings Guidance
Updates: 1 April 2020:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): induction for newly qualified teachers Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on vulnerable children and young people Guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings Collection
Updates: 31 March 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): school closures Guidance
Voucher scheme launches for schools providing free school meals:
Updates 26 March 2020:
COVID-19: guidance for educational settings Guidance DfE and PHE
Coronavirus (COVID-19): attendance recording for educational settings Guidance DfE
Updates (25 March 2020):
I have written to all schools, thanking them for the incredible resilience and flexibility they have shown in the face of unprecedented challenges.
They are central to this country's fight against coronavirus. #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/FG78lVzZxY— Gavin Williamson (@GavinWilliamson) March 25, 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on vulnerable children and young people Guidance DfE and PHE
School governance update Correspondence
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel advice for educational settings Guidance DfE and PHE
COVID-19: guidance for educational settings Guidance DfE and PHE
Updates (24 March 2020):
Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing social distancing in education and childcare settings
Letter from Children and Families Minister Vicky Ford MP to the SEND sector (pdf)
Coronavirus (COVID-19): early years and childcare closures
Coronavirus (COVID-19): maintaining further education provision
Coronavirus (COVID-19): apprenticeship programme response
COVID-19: school closures (22 March 2020)
Further details on exams and grades announced (20 March 2020)
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on isolation for residential educational settings (21 March 2020)
Coronavirus (COVID-19): maintaining educational provision (19 March 2020)
Closure of educational settings: information for parents and carers (19 March 2020)
Plans set out to support pupils eligible for free school meals (19 March 2020)
Statement from the Prime Minister on school and nursery closures (18 March 2020)
See Ofqual below for exams statement
DfE: Schools, colleges and early years settings to close
Watch the Commons statement and debate
To support nurseries at this time, we have decided that they will also be eligible for a business rates holiday for one year from 1 April.
Local authorities will be fully compensated for the cost of this and we are applying the Barnett formula to the additional support. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/jn13TBAWPZ— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 18, 2020
Public Health England / Department for Education
Free childcare offers to continue during coronavirus closures (DfE) (17 March 2020)
COVID-19: travel guidance for the education sector (12 March 2020)
The government has advised against all overseas trips for children under 18 organised by UK education settings.
Read our news story with links to more advice here: https://t.co/Fm5qJWNN9G#COVID_19uk #coronavirus pic.twitter.com/8YiFVuAfqd— Department for Education (@educationgovuk) March 13, 2020
Guidance to educational settings about COVID-19 (updated 19 March 2020)
Guidance for schools and other educational settings in providing advice about the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
Education Secretary's speech at ASCL's Annual Conference (13 March 2020)